Missions had always fascinated Merilyn. Her parents regularly prayed for and hosted international workers in their home. It was a household word. At the early age of 8 she knew that God had called her to serve him overseas. Merilyn attended Toccoa Falls college where she met her husband David Lauffer. After home service in Eastern PA, in 1988 they took their two small boys to serve the Lord Israel.
The Lauffer family had served 16 years in Israel when an illness prevented their return. The Lord redirected their steps to Saline, MI where they planted a church. In 2007 it was clear the Lord was again redirecting and David accepted the call to work at the National Office as Assistant Vice president over Europe, Africa and the Mid East.
Today Merilyn and her family are living in Colorado Springs. She is actively involved in women's ministries at North Springs Alliance Church and works part time at the Connection Center in the National Office. The Lauffers have four children: David (Danae); Daniel; Nathan and Leanne.
The Holy Spirit and Me
A 12 lesson Bible Study by Merilyn Lauffer
Key Verse
"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light."
—Ephesians 5:8
Student Guide (pdf) / Leader guide (pdf)
Overview:
This is perhaps the most difficult assignment that I have ever undertaken. I believe the subject to be one of the most, if not the most important, in the life of the believer. There has been much opposition to the writing and completion of these lessons. It has become clear to me that since the personal work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer means victory over sin and power to accomplish God's kingdom endeavors, our enemy would rather Alliance Women study something less transformational. It is with great humility I give to you what God has given me.
The founder of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, A. B. Simpson, had this to say about the transforming power in the life of the Apostle Peter: "Peter was the irresolute disciple—always running ahead of his Master. Boasting in his self-confidence of what he would do or would not do, yet he ran away at the threat of a servant girl. The power of the Spirit transformed him into the
fearless hero who stood before the murderers of his Lord and charged them with their crime. With lowly spirit and humble heart, Peter went forth to walk in his Master's steps, and at last to die upon his Master's cross with downward head. The miracle in Peter's personal life is greater than the wondrous power of his public testimony.
This is the power which the church needs today to convince an unbelieving world; the power that will make us, not inspired apostles, but living letters, known and read by everybody (2 Corinthians 3:2)." These words, written many years ago, are timeless and what we need to hear today. In our study, The Holy Spirit and Me, we will learn much about the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. It is the power to be holy as He is holy. It is the power to be part of His kingdom endeavors. It is the power to be Jesus to this dark world. It is the power to Be Light!